Sports bra

ABSTRACT

A bra with an adjustable and distributed support mechanism is disclosed. One aspect of certain embodiments includes support lifters that are adjustable using a tensioning mechanism.

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application is a non-provisional application that claims priority from U.S. provisional patent application No. 61/474,782, filed Apr. 13, 2011, entitled “SPORTSBRA”, and which is hereby incorporated by reference in its entirety.

TECHNICAL FIELD

The disclosed embodiments relate generally to apparel. More particularly, the disclosed embodiments relate to a sports bra.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

For a better understanding of the aforementioned aspects of the invention as well as additional aspects and embodiments thereof, reference should be made to the Description of Embodiments below, in conjunction with the following drawings in which like reference numerals refer to corresponding parts throughout the figures.

FIG. 1 illustrates some tensioning mechanism components, according to certain embodiments of the invention.

FIG. 2 illustrates some tensioning mechanism components, according to certain embodiments of the invention.

FIG. 3 illustrates some tensioning mechanism components, according to certain embodiments of the invention.

FIG. 4 illustrates a support structure in the bra, according to certain embodiments of the invention.

FIG. 5 illustrates the use of a bodice insert, according to certain embodiments of the invention.

FIG. 6 and FIG. 7 are alternate embodiments of lifters for the bra.

FIG. 8 and FIG. 9 illustrate the use of encapsulation inserts for each cup of the bra, according to certain embodiments of the invention.

FIG. 10 illustrates a side view of the bra, according to certain embodiments of the invention.

FIG. 11 illustrates an arrangement of the tensioning straps, according to certain embodiments of the invention.

FIG. 12 shows an arrangement of tension straps, according to certain embodiments of the invention.

FIG. 13 and FIG. 14 show the arrangement of tension straps on a racer back bra, according to certain embodiments of the invention.

FIG. 15 illustrates placement of a sweat strip on the bra, according to certain embodiments of the invention.

FIG. 16, FIG. 17 and FIG. 18 show some arrangements of leader lines incorporated into the bra, according to certain embodiments of the invention.

FIG. 19 and FIG. 20 show an embodiment of a tension distribution that can be used as part of the tensioning mechanism, according to certain embodiments of the invention.

FIG. 21 shows a pulley style tension distribution system, according to certain embodiments of the invention.

FIG. 22 illustrates a spooling system in the tension device, according to certain embodiments of the invention.

FIG. 23 illustrates a rack and pinion system in the tension device, according to certain embodiments of the invention.

FIGS. 24-28 illustrate various mechanisms for holding/releasing the torque in the tension members for a spooling system or rack and pinion system for use with the tensioning mechanism, according to certain embodiments of the invention.

FIG. 29 and FIG. 30 illustrate a ratchet like locking/release mechanism for a spooling system for use with the tensioning mechanism, according to certain embodiments of the invention.

FIG. 31 illustrates a drive surface that allows a user to better manipulate the spool, according to certain embodiments of the invention.

FIG. 32 illustrates another drive surface that allows a user to better manipulate the spool, according to certain embodiments of the invention.

FIG. 33 illustrates yet another drive surface that allows a user to better manipulate the spool, according to certain embodiments of the invention.

FIG. 34A and FIG. 34B illustrate a linear mechanism for use with the tensioning mechanism, according to certain embodiments.

FIG. 35A and FIG. 35B illustrate another linear mechanism for use with the tensioning mechanism, according to certain embodiments of the invention.

FIG. 36 illustrates a linear mechanism that is similar to the linear mechanism illustrated in FIG. 35A and FIG. 35B, according to certain embodiments of the invention.

FIG. 37 illustrates another linear mechanism that is similar to the linear mechanism illustrated in FIG. 35A and FIG. 35B, according to certain embodiments of the invention.

FIG. 38 illustrates a linear mechanism that is similar to the linear mechanism illustrated in FIG. 34A and FIG. 34B, according to certain embodiments of the invention.

FIG. 39 illustrates another linear mechanism that is similar to the linear mechanism illustrated in FIG. 34A and FIG. 34B, according to certain embodiments of the invention.

FIG. 40 illustrates another linear type mechanism for use with the tensioning mechanism, according to certain embodiments of the invention.

FIG. 41 illustrates yet another linear type mechanism for use with the tensioning mechanism of the sports bra as described herein, according to certain embodiments of the invention.

FIG. 42 illustrates an embodiment of the bra that improves comfort for the user of the sports bra by reducing puckering on the chest band of the bra, according to certain embodiments of the invention.

DESCRIPTION OF EMBODIMENTS

Methods, systems, user interfaces, and other aspects of the invention are described. Reference will be made to certain embodiments of the invention, examples of which are illustrated in the accompanying drawings. While the invention will be described in conjunction with the embodiments, it will be understood that it is not intended to limit the invention to these particular embodiments alone. On the contrary, the invention is intended to cover alternatives, modifications and equivalents that are within the spirit and scope of the invention. The specification and drawings are, accordingly, to be regarded in an illustrative rather than a restrictive sense.

According to certain embodiments, the sports bra includes a distributed and adjustable tensioning system that can be adjusted by a tensioning adjusting component. The tensioning mechanism along with lifters provide support for the breasts without excessive compression. While following embodiments are described as sports bras, the embodiments are not restricted to sports bra. The embodiments can apply to any type of bra that provides distributed tensioning and where the tension is easily adjusted using a tension adjusting device.

FIG. 1 illustrates some tensioning mechanism components, according to certain embodiments of the invention. FIG. 1 shows the exterior 100 of a sports bra with a tension adjusting device 110. According to one embodiment, the tension adjusting device 110 is located on the outside 100 of the bra near the frontal girth portion of the sports bra. The tension adjusting device 110 includes a housing positioned to control the tensioning straps and lifters as further described with reference to FIG. 4 herein. The tension adjusting device 110 can include a finger-controlled dial 120 on the housing shown on the front portion of the girth of the sports bra. The housing contains a ratcheted spool of wire 130 with the wires exiting the housing at 140, as a non-limiting example. The finger-controlled dial 120 can be used to increase or decrease pressure on wires exiting at 140. Tension adjusting device 110 allows pressure on wires 130 to be increased or released easily when desired. An example of such a tension adjusting device would be the Boa™ #L3. Wires 130 can be used to pull on tension straps (not shown here but is described in further detail herein) that in turn create increased support and lift for the breasts. According to certain non-limiting examples, wires 130 controlled by the tension adjusting device 110 are a diameter and material that provide adequate strength and flexibility.

FIG. 2 illustrates some tensioning mechanism components, according to certain embodiments of the invention. On one side of the bra, a tension strap 240 exits the side seam 200 of the bra. According to certain embodiments, tension strap 240 is along the girth of the sports bra and is attached at the center front of the bra to a side release buckle 210. A non-limiting example of a tension strap material is REI™ ¾″ webbing strap. On the other side of the bra, tension strap 240 exits the side seam 220 and threads through the side release buckle 210 with the loose end of the strap being retained through a tri-slide D ring 230. A non-limiting example of a tri-slide D ring is the Hi Tex Corp Triglide™ buckle. The tension strap is part of a support structure that is described in greater detail with reference to the figures herein.

FIG. 3 illustrates some tensioning mechanism components, according to certain embodiments of the invention. On one side of the bra, the tension strap 350 exits the side seam 300 around the girth of the bra, and is attached at 310 at the center front of the bra to a ring 320. On the other side of the bra, the tension strap 350 exits the side seam 330. Tension strap 350 has Velcro® strip 340 along its length to tension strap 350. Tension strap 350 threads through ring 320 and is secured by the Velcro. The tension strap is part of a support structure that is described in greater detail with reference to the figures herein.

FIG. 4 illustrates a support structure in the sports bra, according to certain embodiments of the invention. The support structure includes tension straps 400. Tension straps 400 are guided through channels sewn onto the bra beginning above the apex 430 of lifters 440, continuing over the shoulders, crossing the back and terminating at the sides, where they are attached to the tensioning device wires. Further, as shown in FIG. 4, tension straps 400 above the breasts area go over the shoulders, around the sides and are attached via jump ring 470 to the tensioning mechanism wires 480. Tension wires 480, threaded through the jump ring 470, can be secured with crimp beads 490. Crimp beads 490 allow the tension wires 480 to be secured by binding the wire ends and forming a loop connection through the jump ring 470.

Sewn onto the bra are reinforcement tapes 420, 450. The section of tension straps 400 terminating at 410 at the horizontal-reinforcement tape 450 to a point above the apex 430 of the lifters 440 is sewn to the bra to effectively create a lifter 440. The reinforcement tapes 420, 450 maintain the proper shape and support when influenced by the lifters 440.

On the sides of the bra, the top-reinforcement tapes 420 originate under the armholes, rise laterally above and across the breasts, and connect to lifters 440 and tension straps 400.

Lifters 440 radiate from tension straps 400 above the top of the breasts and connect to the horizontal-reinforcement tape 450. Lifters 440 can either be sewn along their length onto the bra or tacked at their ends 460 onto the bra and horizontal-reinforcement tape 450, according to certain embodiments. The horizontal-reinforcement tape 450 is sewn below the top-reinforcement tape 420 at a point where the lifters terminate 460.

FIG. 5 illustrates the use of a bodice insert, according to certain embodiments of the invention. FIG. 5 shows a bodice insert 500 covering the front bra area. Bodice insert 500 can improve the use of the support system. According to certain embodiments, a four-way stretch fabric is used in the construction of the bodice insert 500. Four-way stretch fabric is useful because it allows movement in all directions. Non-limiting examples of fabric that can be used are Lycra/Spandex®, cotton/Lycra®, swimsuit fabric and action knits. Other stretch material can be used, as well. The tension straps, reinforcement tapes, lifters, and tensioning mechanism as described with reference to FIGS. 1-4 can be attached to the bodice insert 500.

Bodice insert 500 is placed between the outer fabric of the bra and the lining of the bra. Bodice insert 500 is sewn to the corresponding outer edges of the outside fabric and lining along the neckline 510, armholes 520 and side seams 530 of the bra. Such an arrangement allows for independent movement between the layers of the bra while securing bodice insert 500 insert in place. The use of the bodice insert 500 creates an independent support structure within the bra. It works like a second bra within the sports bra.

FIG. 6 and FIG. 7 are alternate embodiments of lifters for the bra. FIG. 6 shows lifters 604 as straps, tape or sections of fabric radiating from tension straps 602 below the breast bone region. The number of lifters 604 can be one strap or multiple straps to provide added support and lift to the breasts. FIG. 7 show lifters 700 as full sections of fabric.

FIG. 8 and FIG. 9 illustrate the use of encapsulation inserts for each cup of the sports bra, according to certain embodiments. In FIG. 8, if encapsulation or handling of each breast individually in the design of the bra is used, the horizontal reinforcement tapes, lifters and tension straps are sewn onto the correct side (top will face to wards the outer fabric of the bra) of the individual inserts 800 for each cup. Each insert 800 is placed over each padded cup between the outer fabric of the bra and the encapsulation of the bra with the horizontal reinforcement tape and lifters facing the outer fabric of the brassiere. Stitching around the insert edges, beginning at 810 and ending at 820 at the horizontal reinforcement tape will secure the inserts 800 in place.

In FIG. 9, the horizontal reinforcement tapes, lifters and tension straps sewn onto the wrong side (underside; faces towards the padded cups of the bra) of the individual inserts 900 for each cup. Each insert 900 is placed over each padded cup between the outer fabric of the bra and the encapsulation of the bra with the horizontal reinforcement tape and lifters facing the padded cups. Stitching around the insert edges, beginning and ending at the horizontal reinforcement tape will secure the inserts 900 in place.

FIG. 10 illustrates a side view of the sports bra, according to certain embodiments of the invention. On the sides the sports bra, the top-reinforcement tape originates at 1000 under the armholes, rises laterally above and across the breasts, and connects to lifters and tension straps. The bodice insert can continue above and around the shoulders strap at 1010 with added material 1020 to provide cushioning from the tension straps.

FIG. 11 illustrates an arrangement of the tensioning straps, according to certain embodiments of the invention. FIG. 11 shows outside inner lining 1100 and tensioning straps that exit at the sides 410 and re-enter at 420 at the chest band 430 of the bra, where they are attached to the tensioning device wires.

FIG. 12 shows an arrangement of tension straps, according to certain embodiments of the invention. FIG. 12 shows that the tension straps are guided through channels 1200. The channels 1200 are sewn onto the bra beginning above the apex of the lifters, continuing over the shoulders, crossing the back and terminating at the sides. Channels 1200 that are created by sewing a cover-stitch onto a cross-back brassiere 1210 straps are central to each cross-back strap.

FIG. 13 and FIG. 14 shows the arrangement of tension straps on a racer back bra, according to certain embodiments of the invention. FIG. 13 shows racer back bra 1310 where channels 1300 go over the shoulder, crossing the back and terminating at the sides of the bra. On the racer back bra 1310, the channels 1300 are not sewn in the area where the tension straps cross at 1320. Such an arrangement allows the tension straps proper freedom of movement.

FIG. 14 shows that the tension straps can function with various placements on different styles of brassieres including cross-back, racer back and non-crossing placements 1400. Tension straps can be incorporated into a conventional style bra, which has shoulder straps (going over) the shoulders and going straight down the back.

FIG. 15 illustrates placement of a sweat strip on the sports bra, according to certain embodiments of the invention. FIG. 15 shows that fabric sewn to the outside inner lining on the middle-front can function as a sweat strip 1500.

FIG. 16, FIG. 17 and FIG. 18 show some arrangements of leader lines incorporated into the sports bra, according to certain embodiments of the invention. FIG. 16 shows that at strategic points 1600 around the bodice front, monofilament leader lines 1610 are sewn onto the outside of the bra. The leader lines 1610 go over the shoulder area and are tied at the back of the bra.

FIG. 17 shows that strategic point placements 1700 with monofilament leader lines 1710 on the bodice front of the bra are sewn onto the outside of the bra. The leader lines 1710 go over the shoulder area and are tied at the back of the bra.

FIG. 18 shows that, over the right and left shoulder areas, the monofilament leader lines 1810 go through a fabric loop 1800 at the top of the shoulder area. The leader lines 1810 are tied and anchored together at 1830 and at another loop 1820 at the middle of the back on the outside of the bra.

FIG. 19 and FIG. 20 show an embodiment of a tension distribution that can be used as part of the tensioning mechanism described herein, according to certain embodiments. FIG. 19 illustrates a tension distribution system 1900 that includes a stiff tube 1902 through which a tension wire/cord/cable or strap 1904 passes. In such a configuration (as further shown in FIG. 20), when the tension wire/cord/cable or strap 1904 is put into tension 1906 by adjusting tensioning device 2010 (see FIG. 20), the relatively stiff tube 1904 is put into compression 1908 but does not change appreciably in length such that the tensioning forces of the wire/cord/strap is effectively translated to lifters 2040 (see FIG. 20) and tension straps 2000 (see FIG. 20) without undue compression around the girth of the sports bra. In other words, such a tension distribution configuration translates the tension forces from the front portion of the girth of the bra to the tension straps and lifters of the bra without undue compression along the girth of the bra.

FIG. 21 shows a pulley style tension distribution system, according to certain embodiments. In FIG. 21, the tension wire/cord/strap 2106 passes through a pulley or loop 2102 and terminates at termination 2104 to form a pulley system 2150. When tension wire/cord/strap 2106 is put into tension by adjusting tensioning device 2110, the pulley system 2150 has the effect of lessening the tension around the girth while translating the tension forces to tension straps 2100 and lifters 2140 so as to provide support to the breasts.

FIG. 22 illustrates a spooling system. The spooling system 2200 of FIG. 22 can be used in the tensioning device 110 described herein in FIG. 1, according to certain embodiments. Spooling system 2200 includes tension member 2202 (such as a tension wire/cord/strap) connected to a spool 2204. Rotation of spool 2204 in one direction, for example clockwise, causes the tension member 2202 to be wound around the spool 2204 and thus applying tension to the tension member 2202. Rotation of the spool 2204 in the opposite direction causes the tension to be released in the tension member 2202.

FIG. 23 illustrates a rack and pinion system. The rack and pinion system 2300 of FIG. 23 can be used in the tensioning device 110 described herein in FIG. 1, according to certain embodiments. Rack and pinion system 2300 includes a rack 2302 (which is a tensioning member) engaged with a pinion 2304. Rotation of pinion 2304 in one direction, for example clockwise, causes the rack/tension member 2302 to travel in one direction and thus applying tension to the rack/tension member 2302 in the opposite direction. Rotation of the pinion 2304 in the opposite direction causes the tension to be released in the rack/tension member 2302.

FIGS. 24-28 illustrate various mechanisms for holding/releasing the torque in the tension members for a spooling system or rack and pinion system for use with the tension adjusting device of the sports bra as described herein, according to certain embodiments.

FIG. 24 shows a spool 2400 with a drum configuration that includes a catch 2404 that is spring loaded by spring 2406 and detents 2402 within the drum of the spool 2400. Such a spool can be turned manually by hand to apply tension in tension members as described herein with respect to FIG. 1, and FIGS. 19-23. The resulting torque in the tension member is held (“holding torque”) when the user stops rotating the spool and the spring loaded catch 2404 remains engaged with a detent 2402. The spring loaded catch 2404 is such that it is sufficient to hold the static and dynamic torque of the tension member when the user is not manually turning the spool. The user can increase tension or reduce tension by overpowering the holding torque of the spool by manually rotating the spool. Such a catch/detent system can be applied to a pinion (of a rack and pinion system) that has a similar drum configuration as described above.

FIG. 25 shows a spool 2500 with a drum configuration that includes a friction element 2502 that is spring loaded by spring 2506 and a friction drum 2504. Such a spool can be turned manually by hand to apply tension in tension members as described herein. The resulting torque in the tension member is held (“holding torque”) when the user stops rotating the spool and the spring loaded friction element 2502 applies enough static friction against the friction drum 2504. The spring loaded element 2502 and the friction drum 2504 are such that they are sufficient to hold the static and dynamic torque of the tension member when the user is not manually turning the spool. The user can increase tension or reduce tension by overpowering the holding torque of the spool by manually rotating the spool. Such a friction system can be applied to a pinion (of a rack and pinion system) that has a similar drum configuration as described above.

FIG. 26 illustrates a locking mechanism for a spooling system for use with the tension adjusting device of the sports bra as described herein according to certain embodiments. Spooling system 2600 of FIG. 26 includes a spool 2602, a finger detent 2604 and a catch 2608. The spool 2602 can be tuned manually, for example in a clockwise direction, to increase tension. The resulting holding torque can be set by locking the position of the spool by engaging finger detent 2604 with catch 2608. Tension can be released/decreased by disengaging finger detent 2604 from catch 2608 to allow the spool rotate in a counter clockwise direction, according to certain embodiments.

FIG. 27A and FIG. 27B illustrate another locking mechanism for a spooling system for use with the tension adjusting device of the sports bra as described herein, according to certain embodiments. FIG. 27A shows the open position of the locking mechanism comprising a spool 2702 with a surface 2704, a lock 2706 that mates with surface 2704 of the spool 2702 and that is attached to the sports bra by strap/hinge 2708. FIG. 27B shows the spool 2702 in the locked position when lock 2706 is mated to the surface 2704 of spool 2702. According to certain embodiments, the spool surface 2704 can have magnetic properties and/or high friction properties. Lock 2706 is magnetically attracted to the spool surface 2704, for example. In the locked position, the magnetic force is such that it produces enough torque between the spool surface 2704 and the lock 2706 so as to hold the torque of spool 2702 in place. On the other hand, in the open position, the torque of spool 2702 is released. According to certain embodiments, a magnet can be added to strap/hinge 2708 to keep lock 2706 in a stable open position, when desired.

FIG. 28 illustrates yet another locking mechanism for a spooling system for use with the tension adjusting device of the sports bra as described herein, according to certain embodiments. FIG. 28 shows spool 2802 with an adhesive like surface 2804, and strap 2806 attached to the bra at one end and with a finger loop 2808 at the end. Strap 2806 also has an adhesive like surface 2804. A non-limiting example of such an adhesive surface is a hook and loop material similar to Velcro®. When a desired tension is reached, spool 2802 can be locked in place by placing strap 2806 over spool 2802 such that the respective adhesive surfaces of spool 2802 and strap 2806 adhere to each other. Finger loop 2808 enables a user to easily grab the strap 2806 for manipulation by the user. According to certain embodiments, in the locked position, the portion of strap 2806 that extends beyond the spool 2802 adheres to an adhesive surface portion 2810 on the sports bra. To release the tension, strap 2806 can be pulled away from the surface of spool 2802.

FIG. 29 and FIG. 30 illustrate a ratchet like locking/release mechanism for a spooling system for use with the tension adjusting device of the sports bra as described herein, according to certain embodiments. FIG. 29 shows a spool 2902, a drive wheel 2904 and ratchet or ratchet like mechanism 2906, according to certain embodiments. Ratchet or ratchet like mechanism 2906 allows the drive wheel 2904 to rotate in only one direction. Drive wheel 2904 includes a spring loaded catch 2912 with a hinge 2910. Spool 2902 includes a catch receptacle surface 2914. Spool 2902 is coupled to drive wheel 2904 so that when a user turns the drive wheel 2904, the spool 2902 turns. The spool 2902 and the drive wheel 2904 can be decoupled by disengaging the spring loaded catch 2912 from the catch receptacle surface 2914 so that the spool can spin freely. For example, the hinge 2910 allows the spring loaded catch 2912 to disengage from the catch receptacle surface 2914 when the spring loaded catch 2912 is flexed.

FIG. 30 shows spool 3002 with a ratchet 3004. The user directly turns the spool in order to adjust the tension adjusting device of the sports bra as described herein. Ratchet 3004 allows the spool to rotate only in one direction. Ratchet 3004 includes a ratchet lever 3006 that can be used to decouple the spool 3002 from the ratchet 3004 so that the spool can rotate freely, for example. The ratchet 3004 can automatically re-engage with the spool 3002 when the ratchet lever 3006 is released, according to certain embodiments.

FIG. 31 illustrates a drive surface that allows a user to better manipulate the spool, according to certain embodiments. FIG. 31 shows a spool 3102 with a finger detent 3104. Finger detent 3104 provides a convenient way for the user to rotate the spool 3104 in order to adjust the tensioning mechanism of the sports bra as described herein.

FIG. 32 illustrates another drive surface that allows a user to better manipulate the spool, according to certain embodiments. FIG. 32 shows a spool 3202 with an easy-to-grip surface 3204. For example, the easy-to-grip surface 3204 can be a rubberized surface, or a soft touch surface or a micro textured surface over molded materials.

FIG. 33 illustrates yet another drive surface that allows a user to better manipulate the spool, according to certain embodiments. FIG. 33 shows a spool 3302 that includes curved surface like indentations 3304 as finger detents for providing a convenient way for the user to rotate the spool 3302.

FIG. 34A and FIG. 34B illustrate a linear mechanism for use with the tensioning mechanism of the sports bra as described herein, according to certain embodiments. FIG. 34A and FIG. 34B show a linear tension element 3404 with a loop 3408 and a loop adjustment portion 3406. FIG. 34A and FIG. 34B also show a hook or catch 3402. A user can adjust the tensioning mechanism but adjusting the length of the linear tension element 3404 using the loop adjustment portion 3406. The user can engage loop 3408 over hook/catch 3402 to set the tension. FIG. 34A shows the untensioned or released position where the linear tension element is unhooked. FIG. 34B shows the tensioned or set position where the linear tension element is hooked.

FIG. 35A and FIG. 35B illustrate another linear mechanism for use with the tensioning mechanism of the sports bra as described herein, according to certain embodiments. FIG. 35A and FIG. 35B show a linear tension element 3504 and a stop 3506 that can be adjustably positioned on the linear tension element 3504. FIG. 34A and FIG. 34B also show a hook or catch 3502. A user can adjust the tensioning mechanism by positioning the stop 3506 at a desired position on the linear tension element 3504. The user can engage stop 3506 over hook/catch 3502 to set the tension. According to certain embodiments, the stop 3506 can be spring loaded or friction based so that when the stop is moved to desired position on linear tension element 3504, the stop does not slip when in the tensioned or set position. FIG. 34A shows the untensioned or released position where the linear tension element is unhooked. FIG. 34B shows the tensioned or set position where the linear tension element is hooked.

FIG. 36 illustrates a linear mechanism that is similar to the linear mechanism illustrated in FIG. 35A and FIG. 35B, according to certain embodiments. FIG. 36 shows a linear tension element 3604 and a stop 3606 that can be adjustably positioned on the linear tension element 3604. FIG. 36 also shows a plurality of hooks/catches 3602. In addition to adjusting the tensioning mechanism by positioning the stop 3606 at a desired position on the linear tension element 3604, the user can also select any one of the plurality of hooks/catches 3602 to engage the stop 3606.

FIG. 37 illustrates a linear mechanism that is similar to the linear mechanism illustrated in FIG. 35A and FIG. 35B, according to certain embodiments. FIG. 37 shows a linear tension element 3704 and a plurality of stops 3706 on the linear tension element 3704. FIG. 37 also shows a hook/catch 3702. A user can adjust the tensioning mechanism by selecting a stop at a desired position on the linear tension element 3704 and engaging the selected stop onto hook/catch 3702, according to certain embodiments.

FIG. 38 illustrates a linear mechanism that is similar to the linear mechanism illustrated in FIG. 34A and FIG. 34B, according to certain embodiments. FIG. 38 shows a linear tension element 3804 and a loop 3806 on the linear element 3804. FIG. 38 also shows a plurality of hooks/catches 3802. To adjust the tensioning mechanism, the user can select any one of the plurality of hooks/catches 3802 to engage the loop 3806, according to certain embodiments.

FIG. 39 illustrates a linear mechanism that is similar to the linear mechanism illustrated in FIG. 34A and FIG. 34B, according to certain embodiments. FIG. 39 shows a linear tension element 3904 and a plurality of loops 3906 on the linear tension element 3904. FIG. 39 also shows a hook/catch 3902. To adjust the tensioning mechanism, the user can select any one of the plurality of loops 3906 to engage the hook/catch 3902, according to certain embodiments.

FIG. 40 illustrates another linear type mechanism for use with the tensioning mechanism of the sports bra as described herein, according to certain embodiments. FIG. 40 shows one linear tension element 4004 that can be locked into position by a spring loaded lock 4002. There may be two linear tension elements 4004, whereby the tension on the sports bra can be adjusted in a symmetrical fashion, according to certain embodiments. The spring loaded lock 4002 has a fixed portion 4008 that is fixed to the sports bra and a hinged movable portion 4006. A user can adjust the tension on the tensioning mechanism by pulling on the end portion 4010 of the linear tension element 4004. FIG. 40 shows the spring loaded lock 4002 in the locked position whereby the linear tension element 4004 is set in position.

FIG. 41 illustrates yet another linear type mechanism for use with the tensioning mechanism of the sports bra as described herein, according to certain embodiments. FIG. 41 shows a linear tension element 4104 that can be locked into position by a spring loaded lock 4102. There may be two linear tension elements 4104, whereby the tension on the sports bra can be adjusted in a symmetrical fashion, according to certain embodiments. The spring loaded lock 4102 has a fixed portion 4108 that is fixed to the sports bra and a movable button portion 4106. A user can adjust the tension on the tensioning mechanism by pulling on the end portion 4110 of the linear tension element 4104. When the desired tension is achieved, the use can push on the movable button portion 4106 against the linear tension element 4104 to prevent the linear tension element 4104 from slipping. FIG. 41 shows the spring loaded lock 4102 in the locked position whereby the linear tension element 4104 is set in position.

FIG. 42 illustrates an embodiment of the sports bra that improves comfort for the user of the sports bra by reducing puckering on the chest band of the sports bra. FIG. 42 illustrates a tension distribution system that includes flat tube casings 4210 through which a tension wire/cord/cable or strap 4220 passes. In such a configuration, when the tension wire/cord/cable or strap 4220 is put into tension, the flat tube casing 4210 is put into compression but does not change appreciably in length such that the tensioning forces of the wire/cord/strap is effectively translated to lifters (such as lifters 440 in FIG. 4 and lifters 604 in FIG. 6) and tension straps (such as tension straps 400 in FIG. 4 and tension straps 602 in FIG. 6) without undue compression around the girth of the sports bra. In other words, such a tension distribution configuration translates the tension forces from the front portion of the girth of the bra to the tension straps and lifters of the bra without undue compression along the girth of the bra. According to certain embodiments, flat tube casings 4210 can be made of a light weight flexible polyester, crinoline or nylon horsehair braid, as an example.

The foregoing description, for purpose of explanation, has been described with reference to specific embodiments. However, the illustrative discussions above are not intended to be exhaustive or to limit the invention to the precise forms disclosed. Many modifications and variations are possible in view of the above teachings. The embodiments were chosen and described in order to best explain the principles of the invention and its practical applications, to thereby enable others skilled in the art to best utilize the invention and various embodiments with various modifications as are suited to the particular use contemplated. 

We claim:
 1. A bra comprising: a distributed tensioning mechanism including a respective set of lifters at each breast portion of the bra connected to a respective tension strap at a respective shoulder portion of the bra; a tension adjusting device for applying tension to the respective tension straps and the respective sets of lifters; and wherein: each set of lifters form a distributed web over each breast portion of the bra; and the respective tension strap at each respective shoulder portion of the bra extends from an apex portion of the distributed web, the respective tension strap continuing over the respective shoulder portion and around a back portion of the bra to a frontal girth portion of the bra and coupling to the tension adjusting device at the frontal girth portion of the bra.
 2. The bra of claim 1, wherein the tension adjusting device comprises a spool and a ratchet, wherein the spool can be rotated in one direction to increase the tension applied to the distributed tensioning mechanism or rotated in another direction to reduce the tension applied to the distributed tensioning mechanism, and wherein the ratchet can lock the spool when the ratchet is in contact with the spool.
 3. The bra of claim 1, wherein the tension adjusting device comprises a rack and drive pinion, wherein the drive pinion can be rotated in one direction to increase the tension applied to the distributed tensioning mechanism or rotated in another direction to reduce the tension applied to the distributed tensioning mechanism.
 4. The bra of claim 1, wherein the tension adjusting device comprises a spool and a locking strap, wherein the spool can be rotated in one direction to increase the tension applied to the distributed tensioning mechanism or rotated in another direction to reduce the tension applied to the distributed tensioning mechanism, and wherein the spool includes a locking surface that is capable of mating with a corresponding locking surface of the locking strap.
 5. The bra of claim 1, wherein the tension adjusting device comprises a spool and a locking strap, wherein the spool can be rotated in one direction to increase the tension applied to the distributed tensioning mechanism or rotated in another direction to reduce the tension applied to the distributed tensioning mechanism, and wherein the spool includes a hook and loop surface that is capable of adhering to a corresponding hook and loop surface of the locking strap.
 6. The bra of claim 1, wherein the tension adjusting device comprises a spring loaded hinged lock comprising a fixed portion and a movable hinged portion, wherein the movable hinged portion impinges on a portion of the respective tension straps when the movable hinged portion is in the locked position.
 7. The bra of claim 1, wherein the tension adjusting device includes a finger detent portion for rotating a spool of the tension adjusting device.
 8. The bra of claim 1, wherein the tension adjusting device includes a rotating spool with an easy-to-grip surface. 